Newcastle Boss Named

Back in February Toon chairman Freddy Shepherd said: 'I will take my time, but the next manager of Newcastle United will be one of the best managers in world football'.

No disrespect to Glenn Roaeder, but having been manager of three clubs (West Ham, Watford and Gillingham) and been sacked from all three when each of them were rock bottom of their individual leagues ... was not what we had hoped for back in February.

But he has done remarkable job since.

It was no surprise Shepherd was going to stick with what he had, after a brilliant run of results. But he could resist launching a broadside at his critics after winning dispensation to appoint Glenn Roeder as Toon manager.

Shepherd was quick to return fire after the League Managers' Association, which had opposed his bid for dispensation, issued a critical statement.

'I am very unhappy at some of the comments coming from the LMA in recent weeks surrounding our efforts to find the right man for the vacant managerial position at Newcastle United.

'Glenn himself was a member of the LMA while at West Ham, and is about to begin the Pro Licence course again, so I find it both disappointing and surprising they should take such a stance.'

Alan Shearer is pleased to see Roeder given the chance on a full-time basis.

Shearer: 'I think common sense has prevailed and we all hope he does a great job. His record in the last three or four months would suggest he deserves the job.'